The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) John W. Bier (ASN: 0-519523), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 318th Infantry Regiment, 80th Infantry Division, in connection with military operations against an enemy of the United States on 15 March 1945 in Germany. Lieutenant Bier, an Infantry Battalion S-2, personally supervised and led his battalion assault against strong enemy positions near Weiskirchen, Germany, on 15 March 1945. Following the defeat of the enemy troops on the outskirts of the village, he led the battalion through mine fields and heavy enemy fire in an assault which resulted in the entering of the town itself. In the bitter house to house fighting that followed, Lieutenant Bier advised the company commanders, directed many local operations, and personally participated in the final drive which completely defeated the fanatic enemy troops in the sector. The leadership, determined aggressiveness, and devotion to duty displayed by Lieutenant Bier are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.